PTE Core Reading Practice with Answers
Try PTE Core reading practice with answers for all 5 reading task types here, including word selection, multiple choice and paragraph ordering, without signing in.
PTE Core Reading format
Pearson’s section time is 27–37 minutes, shared across the section. These examples are deliberately shortened and allow replay and answer review; they are not a timed paper.
| Core task | Questions in the test | Sample here |
|---|---|---|
| Fill in the Blanks (Dropdown) | 5–6 | Original, answerable without sign-in |
| Multiple Choice, multiple | 1–2 | Original, answerable without sign-in |
| Reorder Paragraphs | 2–3 | Original, answerable without sign-in |
| Fill in the Blanks (Drag and Drop) | 4–5 | Original, answerable without sign-in |
| Multiple Choice, single | 1–2 | Original, answerable without sign-in |
Shared task names also occur in Academic, but counts, skill contributions and scoring can differ. The examples here use everyday and workplace topics. Linked shared-task practice uses the main bank with academic topics; Core-specific practice uses RealPTE everyday questions.
Fill in the Blanks (Dropdown) · A parcel collection notice
RealPTE original · shortened format demonstration
Choose a word for each gap.
Parcels left at the service desk are kept in a locked cupboard. To your parcel, show the assistant the message sent to your phone. This helps staff that the parcel reaches the intended person.
Answer and explanation
Answer: collect; ensure
Why: “Collect your parcel” describes picking it up. “Ensure that” means make certain, which fits the purpose of checking the message.
Multiple Choice, multiple · Joining a sewing workshop
RealPTE original · shortened format demonstration
Beginners can join the sewing workshop without owning a machine. Shared machines are available in the room, but participants should bring fabric for their own project. The instructor asks everyone to choose a simple item for the first session. Registration is required because table space is limited. Payment is taken at the door, not when registering online.
Answer and explanation
Answer: Participants need to bring project fabric; the first project should be simple.
Why: These requirements are stated directly. Machines are shared and payment is at the door, so the other choices contradict the passage.
Reorder Paragraphs · Repairing a loose handle
RealPTE original · shortened format demonstration
Put the paragraphs in a logical order. Assign a different position to each paragraph.
Answer and explanation
Answer: Priya noticed that a cupboard handle in the shared kitchen had become loose. → She therefore borrowed a screwdriver from the caretaker. → After tightening it, she tested the handle and found that it no longer moved.
Why: The problem introduces “the handle”. “Therefore” links the tool to the problem, and “After tightening it” supplies the final test.
Fill in the Blanks (Drag and Drop) · Making a corridor safer
RealPTE original · shortened format demonstration
Fill the gaps using the word bank. Use each chosen word once. The selectors are a keyboard alternative to dragging words.
Word bank: clear · leave · borrow · quiet
The caretaker moved the delivery boxes out of the corridor to keep the exit . A new sign reminds residents not to parcels beside the fire door.
Answer and explanation
Answer: clear; leave
Why: A clear exit is free of obstacles. “Leave parcels” describes placing them there; “borrow” does not fit that meaning.
Multiple Choice, single · Booking a community kitchen
RealPTE original · shortened format demonstration
The community kitchen can be booked for small group meals. Anyone making a booking must name a person who will stay until the room has been cleaned. This person collects the key and signs the closing checklist. The booking fee covers equipment use, but groups must supply their own ingredients.
Answer and explanation
Answer: To take responsibility for closing and cleaning.
Why: The named person stays until cleaning is complete, collects the key and signs the closing checklist. Buying ingredients and cooking all meals are not their stated duties.
Sources and dates
Source: Pearson Core Score Guide: format and length. Checked 2026-10-23.
Source: Pearson Core Score Guide: task counts. Checked 2026-10-23.
Source: Pearson Core Reading. Checked 2026-10-23.
Questions students ask
Where can I do PTE Core reading practice with answers?
Try PTE Core reading practice with answers for all 5 reading task types here, including word selection, multiple choice and paragraph ordering, without signing in.
How long is the PTE Core reading section?
Pearson gives 27–37 minutes across the reading section. The untimed examples here let you learn each response format.
Can I order paragraphs using the keyboard?
Yes. Choose a different position for each paragraph with its labelled selector, then check the answer. The word-bank example also uses selectors instead of requiring a drag gesture.
Are these the same passages as the Core mock?
No. RealPTE wrote these public teaching examples separately from the Core practice and mock banks. The links open the normal practice product.
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